I am delighted to be here today. As you all know, the International Arbitration Centre is an important cog in the wheel of our business and financial services sector and while I cannot be at all the sessions this week, I believe the content of the programme reinforces our growing reputation in the area.

I wish to provide an update on the proposed amendments to the Register of Interest Act, 2006. Contrary to what has been recently purported, 

I would like to begin by extending my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Jamal Smith, a prominent attorney and member of our community.

Good morning and a warm welcome to the British Virgin Islands!

Deputy Governor, Mr. David Archer, Jr. will act in the Office of Governor until March 17 in the absence of His Excellency, the Governor Mr. Daniel Pruce who will be away from the Territory.

His Excellency, the Governor, Daniel Pruce, Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley and Financial Secretary, Mr. Jeremiah Frett are pictured as they paid courtesy visits to the government's Records Management Centre, located at the old Clarence Thomas Limited building in Pasea Estate.

Mr. Hakim T. Creque has been appointed Magistrate by His Excellency, the Governor Daniel Pruce with effect from March 5, in accordance with Section 95 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007.

Madam Speaker this government remains very committed to food sovereignty and food security.

Madam Speaker, I am pleased to announce that the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has been officially removed from the French blacklist of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions.